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Wellness Hub

How Cough Syrup Can Affect Your Sleep

by Laura VDS on Feb 29, 2024

Many people use cough syrup or cough syrup when they are sick.
It helps a lot when you have a cold, but is it safe to use cough syrup before going to bed or can it disrupt your sleep?

In this article, we'll discuss the effects of cough syrup on your sleep quality and look at what you can do to sleep well when you have a cough.

How does cough syrup work?

Cough syrups are designed to relieve coughing by soothing the throat and reducing the cough reflex. Many cough syrups contain active ingredients such as codeine, dextromethorphan, or guaifenesin. These substances work in different ways:

  • Codeine is an opioid that suppresses the cough reflex, but can also have sedative effects.
  • Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant that works on the brain, making coughing less frequent.
  • Guaifenesin works as an expectorant, making it easier to cough.

Effect of cough syrup on your sleep

Calming effect

Some cough syrups contain sedatives that can make you drowsy. Ingredients such as codeine or certain antihistamines found in some cough syrups can help you fall asleep faster. This can be especially helpful if your coughing at night is interfering with your sleep. It is important to be careful when using cough syrups that contain sedatives, as they can disrupt your sleep cycle.

Depth of sleep

While cough syrup can help you fall asleep faster, it can affect the quality of your sleep. The sedatives can disrupt the deeper stages of sleep, leaving you feeling less rested.

Good sleep is very important for your recovery. A disturbed night's sleep can slow down the healing process.

Side effects such as dry mouth or dizziness

Many cough syrups also contain substances that cause dry mouth or dizziness as a side effect. These symptoms can reduce your sleep comfort, making you feel restless or waking up frequently during the night.

Effect on breathing

The ingredients in cough syrup can affect your breathing. This is common in people with respiratory problems and can lead to difficulty breathing, further affecting your overall sleep quality.

How to use cough syrup before bed without disturbing your sleep?

  • Use cough syrup sparingly : Use it only when absolutely necessary. Excessive use can lead to dependence on its calming effects.
  • Opt for natural options : There are cough syrups on the market that contain natural ingredients like honey, thyme and chamomile, which are gentler on your body.
  • Read the package insert : Pay close attention to the list of ingredients and the recommended dosage. Avoid cough syrups that contain high doses of sedatives or sleeping pills.

Alternatives for a better night's sleep

I understand that after reading this article you may not be a fan of cough syrup or cough syrup anymore. Luckily, there are a few alternatives you can try.

  • Honey and Lemon : Mix a tablespoon of honey with warm water and lemon juice. Honey can soothe the throat, while lemon helps relieve nasal congestion.
  • Inhale Steam : Inhale steam to clear your airways and soothe your cough without cough syrup.
  • Warm Tea : Herbal teas like chamomile, mint, or ginger can help soothe your throat and relax you before bed.
  • Deep Sleep Gummies: With a combination of valerian, L-theanine, vitamin B6 and melatonin you can help your body to relax and sleep deeper.

The formula has been specifically developed so that you feel a world of difference the next day.

Product Image

✅ Compiled by pharmacists.

✅ 100% natural.

✅ 100% sugar free and vegan.

✅ Fall asleep more easily.

✅ Sleep easier.

✅ Dietary supplement with valerian extract, L-theanine, vitamin B6 and melatonin.

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